How to Decide if it’s Time to Change Teaching Jobs

There are many reasons why a teacher may wish to switch schools or roles at various stages of their career. If you’re unsure whether or not it’s time to make a move, ask yourself these four questions. You’ll soon find you knew the answer all along.

1. Am I happy and content in my role?

A very important question and a difficult one when it comes to timing. Some teachers are happy to spend most of their career in the same role at the same school. Others want to move on and take steps in their career that elevate their positions. Whichever best describes you, it is important to be sure you are happy in what you do. Stagnation and discontent leads to unhappiness. Your personal well-being should not be neglected, and job satisfaction is a key contributor to a more positive work life balance. Teaching jobs are cyclical. If you want to avoid breaking a contract and move at the right time, it is important to do so before it’s too late.

2.       What are the signs I need a change?

Frustration in your role is a big indicator that it’s time for a change. If you feel like your voice is not being heard, your ideas not embraced, or that the job is simply not enjoyable anymore, then it may be time to move on. 

Other signs that you may be in need of a change include:

• You’re more unhappy that satisfied

• You dread going to work

• You actively look for ways to avoid your job

• You regularly complain to co-workers or friends about job frustrations

• You have a toxic boss and/or work environment

• You’re overwhelmed and lack a happy work-life balance

• A lack of growth opportunities

• You’re not compensated appropriately

• You do not agree with your company’s values

• You daydream about a new career

Unhappiness in your day-to-day role can easily trickle down into your personal life, negatively impacting your mental health and overall wellbeing. The challenge is to act before it gets to this point. If the warning signs are there, maybe it is time to reassess.

 3.       What am I afraid of?

People fear change. You can become comfortable in the role you have and the environment you are a part of. You know the people,; you know the community, and you know the routine. There may be other factors too such as location, family, and travel to consider, but what about you? What about your wellbeing? The ‘grass isn’t always greener,’ but sometimes a new challenge will reinvigorate you.

4.       When are jobs advertised?

Well the answer to this is all year round, but the specific timing can tell you a lot about a school. For example, most well established and organised schools will begin to advertise as early as November and try to close out all positions by the end of February. That doesn’t mean there are no vacancies after that though. Sometimes a candidate’s personal circumstance will change which may create opportunity for you.

For a quick glimpse at the best months to apply for teaching jobs, check out this month-by-month breakdown, courtesy of Teachers of Tomorrow.